It looks like the baby boomer generation will be the first to keep most of their teeth throughout their life. This is mostly due to the benefits of fluoride and new technological advancements in dental care. However, threats to oral health, including tooth loss, continue throughout life.
Risks of Bad Oral Health for Adults
The major risks for tooth loss, tooth decay, and gum disease may increase with age because of problems with reduced saliva production, receding gums, cognitive problems, chronic disease, and other physical limitations.
Adult oral health care problems that become more prevalent as you age include the following:
- Untreated tooth decay: About 1 out of 4 adults in the United States have untreated tooth decay that could eventually lead to costly dental expenses in the future.
- Gum disease: About half of all adults age 30 and above show signs of gum disease, while severe periodontal disease affects about 9% of adults in America.
- Tooth loss: Complete tooth loss among adults over 65 has steadily declined over time, but disparities exist among some population groups. If left untreated, cavities (tooth decay) and periodontal (gum) disease lead to tooth loss.
- Oral cancer. Oral cancers are most common amongst older adults, particularly in people older than 55 years who smoke and are heavy drinkers.
- Chronic diseases. Chronic diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, or obesity may increase an individual’s risk of having missing teeth and poor oral health.
So what exactly can an adult do to maintain good oral health?
Brush and Floss Daily
It is important to brush and floss your teeth to prevent periodontal disease. Refusal to brush one’s teeth regularly can lead to gum disease. Brushing your teeth removes plaque, which is the primary cause of tooth decay and gum disease; it also prevents the build-up of any plaque which is bacteria that decays teeth.
Flossing
Dental floss is an effective and easy-to-use tool that can when used regularly can prevent periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar. While your daily oral hygiene routine should include a thorough brushing that lasts for two minutes twice a day, you should also be incorporating flossing regularly into your oral health routine as well.
Brushing
Brushing one’s teeth can help prevent tooth decay that can lead to dental cavities, which are the deterioration of the tooth enamel, a condition that can result in tooth decay and eventual tooth loss. Brushing also helps to prevent bad breath, which allows you to build better relationships with friends, colleagues, and family members.
Regularly Schedules Dental Visits
Regularly scheduled dental visits are important because we will help to keep your teeth and gums healthy. During the dental check-up, our dentist will check your overall oral health for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other problems that may arise in the future. During your teeth cleaning or deep cleaning, our hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar buildup and then polish your teeth.
Our Adult Dental Services
At Dyer Dental Care, we have a team of experts who offer treatment for patients of all ages, so you can receive all your necessary dental services for your family at our dental office. Our dental team focuses on prevention, so we encourage our patients to visit us regularly and become active participants in achieving and maintaining the optimal level of oral health. Regularly scheduled checkups are encouraged for most adults at least every six months. During these appointments, our doctor will examine your gums and teeth, screen for early indicators of issues, provide professional teeth cleanings, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that will keep you smiling for a long time to come.
In addition to these regular preventive dental appointments, we also provide a wide array of dental care services including:
- Restorative dentistry services like dental crowns, bridges, and root canals
- Advanced services like dental implant-supported tooth replacement
- Specialty dental services like orthodontics, oral surgery, and periodontal therapy
Finally, our staff is here to help whenever our patients need us which includes offering emergency dentistry services on the day patients contact us in need of urgent dental treatment.
Schedule a Dental Appointment Today!
Schedule your next exam today at Dyer Dental Care. Our staff is highly trained and knowledgeable in dental procedures, treatment, insurance needs, and financial options available to all of our patients. You can reach us at (915) 566-9415, or schedule an appointment thru the appointments tab above. We are available for you today in West Texas and Southern New Mexico!
